The Ultimate New York City Guide: Where to Eat and What to Do in NYC

My husband and I share an insatiable passion for travel; we live for the thrill of exploring new horizons and uncovering the unique essence of every city we visit. Our travel philosophy blends the joy of experiencing iconic landmarks with the excitement of discovering local favorites – those “well-kept secrets” that truly define a place. We meticulously research the best places to eat and the must-see attractions long before our bags are packed, always seeking out the culinary gems and cool spots frequented by locals. This comprehensive New York City guide is the culmination of our annual (sometimes multiple times a year!) visits, offering a curated list of both popular tourist destinations and lesser-known local treasures. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for fresh ideas, this guide on where to eat and what to do in New York City is designed to inspire your next adventure.

Having written popular guides for other vibrant cities like Where to Eat in Boston and Where to Eat and What to Do in Chicago, it’s about time I shared my love for New York City! I often find myself typing out the same recommendations to friends and family seeking advice for their NYC trips. So, consider this your one-stop resource for planning an incredible visit to the Big Apple. Let’s dive into the best things to do and the most delicious places to eat in New York City.

Top Things to Do in New York City

Experience the Magic of a Broadway Show

There’s nothing quite like the electric atmosphere of a live Broadway production. My first Broadway experience in 2014 was truly transformative, and I believe everyone should witness this quintessential New York City art form at least once. For budget-conscious travelers, TKTS booths are your best friend. Located across NYC (the Times Square location is the most famous), these booths offer discounted tickets for same-day or next-day performances. While you might not find the newest blockbusters, you can often snag fantastic deals on long-running classics like “Phantom of the Opera” or “Chicago.” Be prepared for a line, especially at opening, but they move surprisingly fast – akin to a well-oiled machine. Just know what you’re looking for when you reach the counter! It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant theatrical culture without breaking the bank.

Walk Across the Iconic Brooklyn Bridge

Each visit to NYC brings a new discovery, and during our last trip, staying within walking distance of the Brooklyn Bridge was a delightful bonus. Despite being 12 weeks pregnant, the beautiful November day called for an adventure, and walking across this historic marvel was an unforgettable experience. It’s one of New York City’s most iconic walks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. You’ll share the pedestrian path with both tourists and local New Yorkers, creating a unique shared experience. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the walk is substantial but incredibly rewarding. Once you reach the Brooklyn side, don’t just turn back; an entirely new adventure awaits!

Explore DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass)

After crossing the Brooklyn Bridge, take the first Brooklyn exit and descend to Washington Street, right into the heart of DUMBO. This vibrant neighborhood is a photographer’s dream, famous for its cobblestone streets, industrial-chic architecture, and spectacular views of both the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. Spend a few hours exploring upscale boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront parks. And, of course, you absolutely must indulge in some world-famous Brooklyn pizza or a freshly baked bagel. My pregnant self certainly embraced the carb-rich delights! The charm of DUMBO lies in its unique blend of historic character and modern appeal, making it a perfect spot to wander, capture stunning photos, and soak in the local atmosphere.

Savor Authentic Brooklyn Bagels at La Bagel Delight

During our DUMBO exploration, I discovered La Bagel Delight, a true gem for an authentic Brooklyn bagel experience. Forget fancy frills; this place delivers pure bagel perfection. They offer a great selection, ensuring you’ll find your ideal, big, fluffy bagel. I opted for the classic “everything bagel” with plain cream cheese – a simple yet profoundly satisfying choice for my first truly authentic Brooklyn bagel. The quality here is unparalleled, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine New York bagel experience.

Marvel at The Oculus: World Trade Center Transportation Hub

For a dose of truly striking modern architecture, a visit to The Oculus is essential. Located adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial, this architectural masterpiece serves as a transportation hub, shopping mall, and a visual wonder. Its pristine white, spacious interior is designed to resemble a dove taking flight or, as a lesser-known fact suggests, the skeletal structure of a whale. The perfect symmetry and gleaming surfaces make it an incredible spot for unique, magical photos for your social media feed. While it offers shopping and cafes, the main draw is undoubtedly the sheer beauty and innovative design of the structure itself, making it a memorable stop in Lower Manhattan.

Indulge in an Iconic Shake Shack Burger

Shake Shack holds a special place in our hearts as home to my absolute favorite burger in the universe. While a bit pricey for fast casual, it still offers a delicious and relatively affordable dining option in New York City. The food quality is consistently excellent, making it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal. Most Shake Shack locations are in prime spots and often bustling, so be prepared for a potential wait if you plan to dine in. Our personal favorite is the Madison Square Park location during warmer months, where you can often find outdoor seating amidst beautiful scenery. And whatever you do, don’t leave without trying one of their legendary milkshakes!

Discover Sweet Perfection at Levain Bakery

Prepare for a life-changing cookie experience at Levain Bakery. Their giant, decadent chocolate chip cookies are so good that I created a copycat recipe for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies just to satisfy my cravings between visits! My go-to is the traditional chocolate chip with walnuts, while my husband, Mr. Wishes, loves the dark chocolate with peanut butter chips (and yes, I have a Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies copycat recipe for those too). These freshly baked marvels, with their perfectly crisp edges and gooey, melted chocolate centers, are simply divine. With two locations now conveniently close to each other, a trip to Levain Bakery is a non-negotiable part of our NYC itinerary, no matter how far out of our way we have to go. That’s true cookie dedication!

Savor Authentic Pizza at Adrienne’s Pizzabar

Located on charming Stone Street in the Financial District, Adrienne’s Pizzabar is our absolute favorite pizza spot in NYC. It offers a pleasant escape from the city’s relentless hustle and bustle. As a self-proclaimed pizza “snob” (my in-laws own a pizzeria!), I can confidently say I know good pizza, and Adrienne’s delivers. We always order their signature old-fashioned pizza and completely devour it. While I haven’t tried their other Italian dishes, the pizza alone is worth the journey. If I lived nearby, I’d undoubtedly be a regular, and perhaps a few pounds heavier! Stone Street itself is a fantastic area to stroll around, enjoy the historic architecture, and soak in a more relaxed atmosphere before or after your meal.

Refresh and Recharge at Argo Tea

When in NYC, we often choose Argo Tea over the ubiquitous Starbucks. Its Flatiron District location, pictured below, boasts ample indoor and outdoor seating, making it a fantastic spot for people-watching. We adore their diverse selection of hot and cold teas, all of which have been exceptional, and appreciate the typically shorter lines. Argo Tea is particularly wonderful during the summer when you need a truly refreshing drink. My personal favorite is their hibiscus apple iced tea – a perfect balance of sweet and tart. It’s an excellent alternative for unique and high-quality beverages in a relaxed setting.

Dine in Style at ABC Kitchen

Also nestled in the Flatiron District, ABC Kitchen offers an outstanding dining experience with a perfect blend of casual elegance. The atmosphere is inviting, and the service is consistently exceptional. It’s an ideal spot for a memorable brunch or dinner, boasting a “farm-to-table” philosophy that translates into unique and innovative dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients. We’ve always been delighted by everything we’ve ordered here. Given its popularity, making a reservation in advance is highly recommended to ensure you secure a table at this beloved New York City eatery.

Indulge in Creative Shakes at Black Tap

While opinions on Black Tap’s burgers vary (in my personal opinion, they’re good but not the absolute best), this restaurant is undeniably a fun and vibrant place to visit, especially for its legendary milkshakes. Their “Crazyshakes” are truly works of art, designed to be eye-catching and perfect for social media. The small restaurant boasts a cool, energetic vibe, though this often means a wait of 30-60 minutes for a table, particularly during peak hours. We found that visiting later in the evening with a larger party significantly reduced our wait time. Come for the experience and the spectacular milkshakes, and enjoy the lively atmosphere!

Discover Unique Bagel Flavors at Tompkins Square Bagels

Yes, another bagel recommendation – because New York City bagels are in a league of their own! I first stumbled upon Tompkins Square Bagels on Instagram and knew I had to visit when I saw their birthday cake cream cheese. What can I say, I’m a kid at heart! They also offer a cookie dough cream cheese, which is next on my list to try. Despite the often-long line, service is incredibly fast, and there’s seating available in the back. Their bagels are consistently high quality, the coffee is great, and the enticing aroma as you walk through the door is pure heaven. It’s a fantastic spot for a classic New York breakfast with a fun, creative twist.

Savor Sweet and Savory Delights at Crepes du Nord

Crepes du Nord is a charming and casual restaurant tucked away in a historic building on a winding street in the Wall Street area of the Financial District. This quaint spot offers an impressive menu of both sweet and savory crepes, all of which are absolutely fantastic. The atmosphere is cozy and fun, though it is a small establishment, so be prepared for a potential wait, especially during colder months when everyone seeks indoor warmth. My husband and I often start with a savory breakfast or dinner crepe, then share a delightful dessert crepe. Every option is wonderfully prepared, making it a perfect choice for a unique and satisfying meal.

Sweet Treats at Schmackary’s Bakery

Schmackary’s Bakery is a delightful spot for specialty cookies that are large, boast interesting flavors, and are relatively affordable for NYC standards. You’ll likely encounter a long line, but it moves quickly, so don’t let that deter you. Their cookies are celebrated for being perfectly soft in the center with a satisfyingly chewy exterior. On one visit, we bought an impressive array to sample as many different kinds as possible! While they might not quite reach the legendary status of Levain Bakery for us, Schmackary’s cookies are undeniably delicious and well worth a visit for their unique flavors and fun experience.

The Unforgettable Dining Experience at Hillstone Restaurant (Formerly “Houstons”)

I’ve saved the absolute best for last in this New York City guide, guys. Our obsession with Hillstone Restaurant (often still referred to by its former name, Houstons) is unparalleled; we seek out a location whenever we get the chance. You absolutely MUST order the spinach and artichoke dip – trust me on this, it’s out of this world. The service at any Hillstone restaurant is truly exceptional; you’ll find your drinks refilled, chips replenished, and needs anticipated without ever having to ask. It’s not uncommon to have multiple attentive servers throughout your meal. They execute everything flawlessly, from the impeccable service to the consistently crave-worthy food. I highly recommend their juicy ribeye, the vibrant Thai steak and noodle salad, and most importantly, their French dip sandwich. It is, without a doubt, the best French dip I have ever had in my entire life. Just go, you won’t regret it!

Unwind at The Lobby Bar at the Ace Hotel on W. 29th Street (Not Pictured)

For a fantastic night out with friends, The Lobby Bar at the Ace Hotel on W. 29th Street is one of our absolute favorite destinations. We love bringing newcomers here to show them a more relaxed, yet stylish, side of NYC nightlife. With its high ceilings, eclectic music, and large, comfortable couches perfect for lounging, it offers a distinctively laid-back atmosphere. Plus, the drinks are surprisingly affordable for New York City! It’s never overly crowded, allowing for easy conversation and a truly enjoyable, unpretentious evening. Whether you’re in for a quick drink or a long chat, it’s a great spot to simply unwind and soak in the cool vibes.

I sincerely hope this guide to where to eat and what to do in New York City has provided you with plenty of inspiration for your next visit. The Big Apple truly has something for everyone, and these are just some of our cherished spots. We’d love to hear about your own favorite NYC restaurants and activities in the comments below!